The Wensleydale School students have been praised for their exemplary behaviour after an inspirational theatre trip to London ended with an impromptu overnight stay in Chesterfield because of the snow
The group of over 30 staff and students enjoyed an action-packed two-day visit to the capital, where the school’s budding performers were given a professional drama lesson at the famous Pineapple Dance Studios, as well as experiencing musical spectaculars such as Wicked! and The School of Rock.
Fresh from the inspiring trip, the returning students lost none of their enthusiasm when, two hours away from home, their coach had to stop because of heavy snow.
Teachers were quick to organise last minute accommodation at the Ibis Chesterfield North, where hotel staff went out of their way to applaud the ‘courteous, polite’ behaviour of the students and say they were ‘a credit’ to the school and their parents.
Julia Polley, Headteacher at The Wensleydale School and Sixth Form, said: “We’re incredibly proud of how well our students represent the school, and are delighted that the hotel’s management took the time to e-mail to let us know how impressed they were with their behaviour.
“There are times in your career as a headteacher where you come across one moment that can real sum up your school. For me, this was one of those moments.
“We had a group of students who took the bull by the horns and were inspired after learning from professional dancers in an iconic venue. The students were then acknowledged for being the mature, respectful young people that I am so proud to teach, and they have come back with the ambition and aspiration that I think epitomises this school.”
The trip was one of a number of inspiring opportunities that the school has provided in recent months. The debating club has, for example, just returned from York after competing in the oldest and largest debating competition for schools in England. The Science Stretch & Challenge Day, held for local primaries, was described as being “the best day ever” by one pupil and the innovative new Business and Innovation offer for Sixth Formers is already attracting a number of applicants.
